Parasitic Copepods

This book is a generic revision of the entire caligid family, which has not been reviewed and revised since its establishment in 1834 by Burmeister. It includes detailed descriptions of all genera within the family along with a discussion on the taxonomic status of the genera previously belonging to the Euryphoridae and compiles an extensive array of information and literature regarding "sea lice" into one book. The external morphology, functional morphology, life history, and host-parasite relationships of the Caligidae are presented. A key to the genera of the Caligidae is provided. Because this family has become increasingly important due to their deleterious effects on fishes, especially cultured or farmed fishes throughout the world, aquaculturists have become very concerned about these “sea lice”.

This thoroughly revised and updated edition of a classic reference work is the definitive guide to the identification of the parasites of freshwater fishes of North America. The book provides information on public health concerns about fish parasites, the methods used to examine fish for parasites, and those parasites found only in very selective organs or tissues. It lists the known species of each genus, along with reference citations that enable readers to find literature pertinent to species identification, life cycles, and in some cases, control.